LONDON — South Laurel junior standout Kenzie Williams has been named the 2026 KY Prep 13th Region Fastpitch Player of the Year after putting together one of the most dominant all-around seasons in Kentucky and leading the Lady Cardinals to one of the most successful campaigns in program history.
Williams, who was also named to the Class 3A, All-State First Team, helped guide South Laurel to a 36-6 record, a 50th District championship, a 13th Region championship, and an appearance in the KHSAA Fastpitch State Tournament.
A force both at the plate and in the pitching circle, Williams delivered numbers that ranked among the best in Kentucky.
Offensively, the junior slugger hit .471, collecting 64 hits in 136 at-bats while scoring 23 runs and driving in an incredible 59 RBIs. Williams connected with 13 home runs, added 14 doubles and four triples, and finished with 18 extra-base hits. She also drew 14 walks and struck out only 26 times in 42 games.
Her 64 hits led South Laurel while her 59 RBIs and 13 home runs established her as one of the state’s most dangerous power hitters.
As impressive as Williams was at the plate, her work in the circle may have been even more remarkable.
Williams appeared in 26 games, making 26 starts while compiling a 23-2 record. Over 155 innings, she allowed just 63 hits and 20 runs, only 10 of which were earned, resulting in a microscopic 0.45 ERA.
The hard-throwing right-hander struck out 307 batters while issuing only 13 walks, showcasing elite command throughout the season.
She finished the year with more than 23 strikeouts per walk. Williams’ dominance helped South Laurel capture its eighth regional championship in program history and return to the state tournament for the first time since 2023.
